Normal Anatomy and Normal Function

The foot supports all the weight of our body when we are standing. It therefore needs to be strong and stable. The foot also supports our weight when we are walking and running on flat or even uneven surfaces. The foot therefore needs to be flexible and elastic. The foot accomplishes all of these functions by a beam and truss system in which the bones of the foot form an arch system from heel to toes and from side to side.  And the arches are tied together on their under-surface by connective tissue and muscles.

The plantar fascia is a tough fibrous connective tissue that attaches the calcaneus (heel bone) to the bases of the phalanges (toes). The plantar fascia, with other ligaments closer to the under-surfaces of the bones of the foot works with the muscles in the foot and the lower leg to create a resilient and flexible quality to the arches.